Trip report:
We had a great turnout for this collaborative campout with Outdoor Asian – Washington and sponsored by Olympic National Forest surely because of an unseasonably warm October that delivered daytime temps in the high 80s and warm, dew-less nights. Seal Rock is an extremely popular campground on the western shoreline of Hood Canal offering awesome sunrises, water activities, and shellfish harvesting. These skill-building and BIPOC outdoor Community building campouts are extremely important.
We hiked, took in panoramic vistas, rested, kayaked, and SUP’d. Whether a first camping experience or seasoned camper, the land and water, sunshine and star-lit campfire, brought spiritual nourishment to our Community. For some, this was their first camping experience, while others tried new things and improved their camping systems. Some learned to make s’mores, others to light a campfire. Some went on a hike, while others chose to remain at the campground to rest or paddle on Hood Canal. The interactive Interpretive Specialist-led program was on the subject of tree communication. A special weekend at a very special place.
Participant Praise:
“A great reminder of just how good living in the moment feels.”
“I can find Community with others that have a shared history while exploring the outdoors.”
“The wonderful weather and seeing all the melanated people together camping stood out in my mind. Having this campground reserved just for this event was an incredible experience. It felt very special and like we had our own private campground. The setting was gorgeous.”
Gratitude to Justice Outside. Olympic National Forest. Outdoor Asian – Washington. You supported Black, Indigenous, and Communities of Color in the movement towards a more racially-just outdoors.